Jan. 4 Letters to the Editor

January 3, 2009

Library policies diificult for patron

My family and I thoroughly enjoy using library facilities wherever we go. We’ve found the Clovis-Carver Public Library to have a great collection and outstanding children’s programs, which we’ve used on numerous occasions.

However, I am disappointed that the Clovis-Carver library refuses to provide service unless a library card is presented.

Library cards are unwieldy and extraneous for several reasons. They are just one more card to lose or have to carry around. It is easy to forget them. Further, they are unnecessary.

The library staff can look up a patron’s account simply after being presented a government ID card, such as a driver’s license.

Library cards cause unnecessary expense to the library and its patrons. They cost each patron to be made, and the library to buy the materials and card-maker.

Lastly, library cards are completely unsecure. The only means of verifying a patron’s identity is his signature on the back of the card. Other forms of government ID already have a patron’s name and photo printed on the card, making them an all-around better choice to manage access to the Clovis-Carver library’s services.